Entertainment

The 'Cruel Intentions' Show Just Added To Its Cast

by Emily Lackey

Big news for the previously reported Cruel Intentions sequel:It was announced on Tuesday that Kate Levering will play Annette Hargrove in NBC's Cruel Intentions sequel series — the role, of course, originally portrayed by Reese Witherspoon in the 1999 film. But, who exactly is Kate Levering? The star has been in a number of big-time productions that may have gone unnoticed by even the most devout movie buffs. With her experience in hits on the stage and on television, Levering is an acting force to be reckoned with. And, as Annette Hargrove, I have no doubts she'll steal the small screen.

When NBC announced in February that an official sequel to the popular movie would be made into a television series that takes place more than 15 years after the movie took place, just who would play these iconic character was anyone’s guess. Fans were desperate to have the original stars of the movie — Sarah Michelle Gellar, Reese Witherspoon, Selma Blair, and Ryan Philippe (OK, maybe not Ryan, since his character Sebastian died) — revive their characters. Though Gellar did eventually sign on to the series, it doesn't seem like Witherspoon will.

Still, fans should be excited by the news that Levering landed the roll of a grown-up Annette, especially since she has more than enough experience to tackle this precious little part.

1. She Made It Big On A Pretty Well-Known Show

The star made it big on the small screen in her role in Drop Dead Diva.

2. She’s Been Around The TV Scene For A While Now

Levering has also had starring and supporting roles in a number of other television series, including Kevin Hill, Cashmere Mafia, and NCIS: LA.

3. She’s Used To Playing Mean Girls

So, the sweet Hargrove is a total change for her. In Drop Dead Diva she played Kim Kaswell, a woman who wasn’t exactly the sweet or kind.

4. She Has An Adorable Son

Levering gave birth to a son in 2013.

5. She’s A Major Star Of The Stage

Before she made it big in Hollywood, Levering was in a number of Broadway plays, singing and dancing her way into audiences’ hearts.

6. She Has Serious Acting Chops

In 2001, Levering was nominated for a Tony Award for her role in 42nd Street.

7. She Was In One Of Your Favorite Shows And You Didn’t Even Know It

That’s right: Levering had a brief role on Home Improvement in 1999. Her character didn’t have a name, but it was her very first screen role, and that’s nothing to shrug at.

So there you have it: Everything you need to know about Levering, the latest star of the Cruel Intentions sequel series.